As a homeowner in Reno, maintaining your plumbing system is crucial to avoid costly repairs and ensure a smooth-running household. Here are some essential plumbing tips to help you with preventative maintenance and quick fixes, courtesy of All Connect Plumbing.

1. Regularly Inspect Your Plumbing System

Regular inspections are key to catching potential issues before they become major problems. Here’s what to look out for:

• Leaks: Check under sinks, around toilets, and in the basement for any signs of water leakage.
• Water Pressure: Test your water pressure using a pressure gauge. Ideal home water pressure should be between 40-60 psi.
• Corrosion: Look for any signs of corrosion on pipes, which can lead to leaks or bursts.

2. Preventative Maintenance Tips

Preventative maintenance can extend the life of your plumbing system and save you money in the long run. Here are some actionable tips:

• Install Water Softener: Reno’s water can be hard, which leads to mineral buildup in your pipes. Installing a water softener can prevent this.
• Clean Your Drains: Regularly clean your drains using a mixture of vinegar and baking soda to prevent clogs.
• Flush Your Water Heater: Sediment buildup in your water heater can reduce efficiency and lifespan. Flushing it annually can help maintain its performance.
• Check for Hidden Leaks: Monitor your water meter for unexpected spikes in usage, which can indicate hidden leaks.

3. Quick Fixes for Common Plumbing Issues

Sometimes, plumbing issues can arise unexpectedly. Knowing some quick fixes can save you time and money:

• Fixing a Leaky Faucet: Often, a leaky faucet is caused by a worn-out washer. Replacing the washer can usually solve the problem.
• Unclogging Drains: Use a plunger or a plumber’s snake to unclog drains. Avoid using chemical drain cleaners as they can damage your pipes.
• Running Toilet: A running toilet is often due to a faulty flapper. Replacing the flapper can usually stop the water from continuously running.

4. Know When to Call a Professional

While DIY fixes can be handy, some plumbing issues require professional attention. Here’s when you should call All Connect Plumbing:

• Persistent Leaks: If a leak persists despite your efforts, it’s best to call in a professional.
• Water Heater Issues: Problems with your water heater, like lack of hot water or strange noises, should be handled by a professional.
• Major Blockages: If plunging doesn’t resolve a clog, it might be deeper in the system and require professional tools to clear.

5. Seasonal Plumbing Tips

Reno experiences a range of temperatures throughout the year, which can affect your plumbing system. Here are some seasonal tips:

• Winter: Insulate your pipes to prevent freezing. Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses.
• Spring: Check for any winter damage and ensure all outdoor spigots are functioning correctly.
• Summer: Inspect your sprinkler system for leaks and ensure it’s working efficiently.
• Fall: Clear leaves and debris from your gutters and downspouts to prevent blockages.

6. Upgrade to Efficient Fixtures

Modern plumbing fixtures are designed to be more efficient, saving you water and money. Consider upgrading to:

• Low-Flow Toilets: These use less water per flush and can significantly reduce your water bill.
• Water-Saving Showerheads: These reduce water usage without compromising on pressure.
• Efficient Faucets: Look for faucets with aerators, which mix air with water to reduce flow without affecting performance.

7. Educate Your Household

Ensuring everyone in your household knows basic plumbing care can prevent many common issues:

• Proper Disposal: Avoid flushing items like wipes or sanitary products, which can cause blockages.
• Mindful Usage: Teach everyone to be mindful of water usage, such as turning off the tap while brushing teeth or taking shorter showers.

8. Emergency Preparedness

Despite your best efforts, plumbing emergencies can still happen. Being prepared can minimize damage and stress:

• Know Your Main Water Valve: Familiarize yourself with the location of your main water valve and how to shut it off in case of a major leak.
• Have a Basic Toolkit: Keep a basic plumbing toolkit handy, including a plunger, plumber’s tape, pipe wrench, and a bucket.
• Contact List: Keep a list of emergency contacts, including All Connect Plumbing, for quick access in case of a plumbing emergency.

9. Advanced Plumbing Maintenance

For homeowners who want to take their plumbing maintenance to the next level, consider these advanced tips:

• Water Pressure Regulator: Install a water pressure regulator to maintain consistent water pressure and prevent pipe damage.
• Backflow Prevention Device: To protect your water supply from contamination, consider installing a backflow prevention device.
• Sump Pump Maintenance: If you have a basement, regular sump pump maintenance is crucial to prevent flooding. Test your sump pump periodically and clean the pit.
• Inspect Sewer Line: Have a professional inspect your sewer line every few years to catch any potential blockages or damage before they become serious problems.

10. Plumbing for New Homeowners

If you’ve recently moved into a new home, here are some plumbing tips to get you started:

• Get a Plumbing Inspection: Even if your home passed its general inspection, a dedicated plumbing inspection can catch issues that may have been missed.
• Locate All Shutoff Valves: Know where all the shutoff valves are in your home, including the main water valve and individual fixture valves.
• Check for Leaks: Do a thorough check for any leaks around sinks, toilets, and water appliances.
• Understand Your Water Heater: Know what type of water heater you have, its maintenance schedule, and how to adjust its settings.

11. Eco-Friendly Plumbing Tips

Being mindful of your water usage not only helps the environment but can also save you money. Here are some eco-friendly plumbing tips:

• Install Dual-Flush Toilets: These toilets allow you to use less water for liquid waste and more for solid waste.
• Fix Leaks Promptly: Even small leaks can waste a significant amount of water over time. Fix them as soon as you notice them.
• Use Greywater Systems: Consider installing a greywater system to reuse water from sinks, showers, and washing machines for irrigation.
• Collect Rainwater: Use rain barrels to collect rainwater for outdoor watering needs.

Conclusion

By implementing these preventative maintenance tips and knowing how to handle common plumbing issues, you can keep your plumbing system in top shape and avoid costly repairs. For more complex problems or if you’re unsure about a plumbing issue, don’t hesitate to contact All Connect Plumbing. They offer expert services to ensure your plumbing is always running smoothly.

Maintaining your plumbing system doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With regular inspections, preventative measures, and a bit of know-how, you can keep your home’s plumbing in excellent condition. And remember, when in doubt, the professionals at All Connect Plumbing are just a call away. By staying proactive and informed, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your home’s plumbing is in good hands.​

Leaky faucets, plugged drains, and failing water heaters are common issues in all homes. However, manufactured homes have unique plumbing needs. Accessibility can be a challenge, depending on factors like how the skirting was installed and whether the home is on a foundation. Unlike stick-built houses, water heaters in mobile homes are typically accessed from the exterior. Additionally, the plumbing lines and fixtures in manufactured homes may have a shorter lifespan compared to those in traditional houses.
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Although manufactured homes have improved over the years, their construction materials often require more maintenance. Moreover, if the home has been relocated, components can become loose or damaged. Water damage resulting from a leaky pipe or fixture can lead to costly repairs, including flooring and insulation replacement.

It's important to note that not all plumbers are licensed to work on manufactured homes, and some may prefer not to handle such jobs at all. Therefore, finding a licensed plumber who is experienced with manufactured homes is essential for prolonging the home's lifespan. A quick response to plumbing issues can make the difference between a minor repair and a major renovation. It's crucial to understand that there's no such thing as a minor leak when it comes to plumbing; delaying repairs can result in further damage over time. Leaks do not fix themselves, and addressing them promptly can prevent costly consequences down the line.

Older homes possess an undeniable charm and character, but they often require special care and attention when it comes to home improvements. Striking a balance between preserving the historic integrity of the property and addressing safety and environmental concerns is essential.

All Connect Plumbing offers some valuable guidelines for homeowners looking to improve their older homes:

1. Address Safety Risks: Older homes may contain outdated or hazardous components that require renovation. Wiring, plumbing, asbestos insulation, and lead paint are common safety concerns that should be addressed promptly by professionals.
2. Undertake Upkeep Projects: Certain areas of older homes may require updates to enhance practicality and convenience. Kitchens, bathrooms, windows, and heating/cooling systems often benefit from renovation to improve functionality and energy efficiency.
3. Consult Professionals: For complex or potentially dangerous tasks, it's best to enlist the help of professionals. Projects such as plumbing repairs, septic tank pumping, gutter cleaning, chimney maintenance, and historic architecture preservation should be handled by experts like All Connect Plumbing.
4. DIY Value-Boosting Projects: Simple DIY tasks can increase the value of an older home without breaking the bank. Fresh paint, updated hardware and fixtures, and minor repairs can significantly enhance the appeal of the property to potential buyers.
5. Be Informed and Prepared: Maintaining an older home requires dedication and awareness of its unique needs. Stay proactive in addressing repairs and improvements, and be willing to seek professional assistance when necessary.

By following these guidelines, homeowners can ensure that their older homes remain safe, functional, and attractive for years to come. All Connect Plumbing offers comprehensive plumbing services in the Reno-Sparks area, providing expertise and reliability for all your plumbing needs. Contact us today for a free estimate!

Older homes possess an undeniable charm and character, but they often require special care and attention when it comes to home improvements. Striking a balance between preserving the historic integrity of the property and addressing safety and environmental concerns is essential.

All Connect Plumbing offers some valuable guidelines for homeowners looking to improve their older homes:

1. Address Safety Risks: Older homes may contain outdated or hazardous components that require renovation. Wiring, plumbing, asbestos insulation, and lead paint are common safety concerns that should be addressed promptly by professionals.
2. Undertake Upkeep Projects: Certain areas of older homes may require updates to enhance practicality and convenience. Kitchens, bathrooms, windows, and heating/cooling systems often benefit from renovation to improve functionality and energy efficiency.
3. Consult Professionals: For complex or potentially dangerous tasks, it's best to enlist the help of professionals. Projects such as plumbing repairs, septic tank pumping, gutter cleaning, chimney maintenance, and historic architecture preservation should be handled by experts like All Connect Plumbing.
4. DIY Value-Boosting Projects: Simple DIY tasks can increase the value of an older home without breaking the bank. Fresh paint, updated hardware and fixtures, and minor repairs can significantly enhance the appeal of the property to potential buyers.
5. Be Informed and Prepared: Maintaining an older home requires dedication and awareness of its unique needs. Stay proactive in addressing repairs and improvements, and be willing to seek professional assistance when necessary.

By following these guidelines, homeowners can ensure that their older homes remain safe, functional, and attractive for years to come. All Connect Plumbing offers comprehensive plumbing services in the Reno-Sparks area, providing expertise and reliability for all your plumbing needs. Contact us today for a free estimate!

For many business-minded individuals, pursuing a career in commercial real estate development can be very rewarding. Commercial real estate developers have the opportunity to earn a competitive annual salary while advancing the economy and creating millions of jobs within sectors such as office, retail, warehouse, and industrial construction. In fact, the industry supported 9.2 million US jobs in 2019 and 8 million jobs in 2020 — according to the Commercial Real Estate Development Association (NAIOP).

To pursue a career as a commercial real estate developer, there are several crucial steps you’ll need to take to obtain the education and credentials needed to succeed in the industry. Here, we highlight a few of these requirements. 

Meet Basic Career Requirements
Your first few steps toward becoming a commercial real estate developer is obtaining the right education, state licensure, and experience. If you have no background in real estate, for instance, you’ll want to start by obtaining a bachelor’s degree in real estate, business administration, or construction management. Or, if you already have a real estate background, you could obtain a professional certificate in commercial real estate development.

After obtaining a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, it’ll be time to earn your real estate license. You’ll need to be licensed in order to start working as a commercial real estate developer or broker, and you may choose to obtain professional certification as well. The NAIOP offers two types of certifications for interested real estate professionals:

• Certificate of Advanced Study in Real Estate Finance.
• Certificate of Advanced Study in Commercial Real Estate Development.

That said, many aspiring commercial developers start out as real estate brokers or property managers. As they obtain work experience in real estate, they can transition into commercial real estate development by networking with other real estate professionals and joining professional organizations like the NAIOP, Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM), and Society of Industrial and Office Realtors (SIOR).

Learn About the Commercial Development Process
Once you’ve obtained some real estate experience and you’re ready to transition into commercial development, you’ll need to familiarize yourself with the different steps in the real estate development process. Typically, these steps include setting goals for your project; applying for permits; locating, assessing, and acquiring land for your commercial property; and obtaining a commercial real estate loan. 

You’ll also need to assemble your commercial real estate team. When building a property from the ground up, you’ll need to look for a general contractor, civil engineer, architect, and landscape architect.

Provide Ample Lighting to Ensure Building Safety
Post-COVID, it’s especially important to keep safety in mind when developing your commercial property. These added safety measures will not only protect your building occupants and visitors from harmful viruses and bacteria, but other safety features — like installing LED parking lot lights in your parking garages, stairwells, and walkways — will help to deter crime and prevent driving accidents. 

As a commercial real estate developer, it’s important to keep in mind that your buildings and parking garages require ample lighting at all hours of the day and night. High-efficiency lighting enhances building security and safety, helping to reduce the risk of trips and falls, assaults, carjackings, and car-pedestrian accidents. 

Market Your Commercial Property
After many months spent planning and developing your commercial property, you’ll need to market it to your target audience. Start by building your brand identity, just as you would for any other business. This means coming up with a mission statement and slogan, building a website and social media presence, and using online logo-making tools to create a custom logo that represents your brand — taking the time to carefully select the right colors, fonts, text, and style. You can then market your property on social media, in business journals and newspapers, and by sponsoring local events. 

In Conclusion
There are many ways to succeed in commercial real estate development, and these tips are just the start. Gain experience, earn your license, and showcase your skills and qualifications with a stellar resume. Once you get started, ensure your commercial properties are well-lit, safe, and secure. We know there’s a lot to learn when you’re just getting started, but building a commercial real estate career can be an enjoyable journey! 

Need commercial plumbing services in Reno? All Connect Plumbing offers unparalleled plumbing expertise and experience. Call 775-530-7850

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The adage "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure" rings true not only for physical health but also for the health of your plumbing system. Often, we overlook the importance of the water delivery and disposal systems in our homes and businesses until a problem arises. However, issues such as a dripping faucet or a continuously running toilet can escalate from minor annoyances to major headaches if left unattended.

Consider all the appliances and fixtures that rely on properly functioning plumbing: laundry machines, dishwashers, water heaters, toilets, faucets, showerheads, refrigerator ice makers, and water softeners, to name a few. Any malfunction in these components can lead to increased utility bills and may eventually necessitate costly replacements. Moreover, ensuring that water flows smoothly down drains without clogging is crucial to preventing overflow and water damage.

Rather than waiting for a plumbing emergency to occur, why not take proactive steps to prevent future headaches? Scheduling an inexpensive whole-house maintenance check on your plumbing system can help identify and address potential issues before they escalate into costly repair bills. By investing in preventative maintenance now, you can save yourself time, money, and stress in the long run.
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Don't wait until a minor plumbing issue becomes a major problem. Contact us today to schedule a maintenance check and safeguard the health and functionality of your plumbing system. Trust us to keep your water flowing smoothly and your home or business running efficiently.

When it comes to home repairs and renovations, many people like to save money by taking care of maintenance themselves. Sure, going the DIY route is typically more budget-friendly, but there are times when you should call up a contractor instead of trying to tackle the problem by yourself. For example, if you’re trying to renovate your kitchen in order to sell your home quickly and for more cash, you definitely want to bring in the professionals to tackle this job—the last thing you want is to make a mistake that could ruin your home’s market appeal!

While you can fix certain issues on your own with a basic toolkit and a little elbow grease, you could also cause serious structural damage to your home if you make a mistake while attempting a more difficult repair. Wondering which projects you should hire contractors to handle? Here, All Connect Plumbing are a few repairs you shouldn’t try to fix on your own. 

New Flooring

While installing new wood flooring might seem like a potential DIY project, it’s definitely a job for the pros, particularly if you’re reflooring a large space. Working with a flooring contractor ensures proper removal of existing flooring, quality workmanship, timeliness and access to a variety of materials. The same holds true for floor refinishing or restoration. Weekend warriors only have so much time to give, and the pros can wrap up these jobs faster, quickly achieving the results you’re seeking. Costs will obviously vary depending on size and materials. 

Roof Installation

How hard could it be to fix a minor leak in your roof? It’s easy to underestimate just how risky it is for someone with no roofing experience. The last thing you want to do is botch the job and end up with a section of your roof caving in! Call up a local roofer instead of getting out your ladder.

Depending on the situation, there’s always a chance that you may need a roof replacement - and if that’s the case, you definitely want a professional roofer tackling this. Routine repairs like replacing tile shingles will run several hundred dollars, but a full roof replacement is much pricier, averaging around $7,000 to $13,200. You’ll likely end up putting about 40 percent of your budget toward materials, with the other 60 percent going toward labor. The overall cost of this major project will depend on a variety of factors, like the size and pitch of your roof, the materials you choose, and building code requirements.

Gutter Cleaning

Gutters play an important role in protecting your home from water damage, but they can be difficult to keep clean. Leaves, twigs, and other debris can quickly build up, causing gutters to become clogged and ineffective. In addition, gutters that are not properly maintained can sag and pull away from the house, allowing water to leak through and cause serious damage. Professional gutter cleaners have the experience and equipment to safely and effectively clean your gutters, preventing costly repairs down the road. In addition, they can also inspect gutters for any signs of damage and make any necessary repairs.

The cost of gutter cleaning typically ranges from $150 to $300, but will depend on the specifics of your home. To find reputable local contractors, search online for gutter cleaners and review customer feedback before getting a quote.
 
Electrical Work

Are you tempted to fix an electrical issue by yourself? It’s not as simple as rearranging a few wires, and a single mistake could leave you electrocuted. A bad DIY job could also result in a house fire. 

If you’re dealing with power issues or having problems with your lighting fixtures, call an electrician. The charges for electrical projects vary greatly. For example, having an outlet replaced will cost you about $250 to $300. 

Plumbing Repairs

Sure, you may be able to fix a leaky sink faucet on a weekend afternoon - but if you have bigger plumbing problems, don’t put your handyman skills to the test. If you don’t know the ins and outs of your plumbing system, you could easily end up flooding your kitchen or bathroom, and paying to fix that water damage could put a serious dent in your savings. Instead, call a professional plumber like All Connect Plumbing.

According to Inch Calculator, plumbers generally charge between $50 to $150 per hour. Replacing a valve for your water main shutoff will cost about $150 to $300. Dealing with a burst pipe? Expect to shell out about $300 to mend the leak.
 
DIY Friendly Welding Projects

Basic welding skills can come in handy for home repair projects, opening up a world of possibilities when it comes to fixing and creating items around the house. For example, you can use welding to mend broken metal furniture, repair fence posts, and even fabricate custom pieces for your home. 

By learning the art of welding from a source like Welding Logic, you can save money on repair costs and add a personal touch to your home projects. With practice and a bit of creativity, basic welding skills could become an essential tool in your DIY arsenal.

Removing Walls

Let’s say that you want to remodel the downstairs of your home, and you need to have a wall removed. You should never try to knock down a load-bearing wall on your own. Doing so could lead to the collapse of your home’s ceiling or second floor. Instead, work with a reputable contractor. If you plan to go forward with a pricier project, like knocking down walls to create an open floor plan, you may want to take out a home repair loan to cover the cost.

Make Services Easy

Staying on top of home repairs and coordinating with multiple contractors can be a hassle, but using the Frontdoor app to manage your home can help keep you organized. With the Frontdoor app you’ll have access to service plans to meet your needs, as well as one-off service providers should the unexpected come up. And it’s all easy to use with their innovative technology. 

Temporary Housing

If the scope of your project is fairly large, as in a significant remodel, you’ll need to determine whether you can live in the midst of renovations or if you need to find a place to live in the meantime. It will come down to cost and inconvenience. 

If you’re remodeling your kitchen and installing a new range hood to improve your kitchen’s air quality, can you make do with a hot plate, a grill and a portable stove for the interim? If that sounds unlikely given your family’s situation, a short-term rental can be the ideal solution. Using a local listing directory can point you toward a variety of rental options, but be sure to filter for “short-term” when filtering for other amenities like pet-friendliness, fitness centers, etc.

Stay on Top of Home Repairs

As a homeowner, you know that maintenance costs can get expensive. Sometimes, the most fiscally responsible choice is simply going through with repairs on your own. But if you DIY projects like roofing work, gutter cleaning, and electrical and plumbing repairs, this could cause further damage that ultimately results in bigger bills, so you’re better off calling in the pros like All Connect Plumbing to ensure the job is done right the first time!

​Photo via Unsplash